Mike Maciag -- Data Editor. Mike analyzes databases and works on data journalism projects for the magazine. He writes on a variety of topics and manages the Governing Data portal for Governing.com. Prior to joining Governing, Mike worked at local newspapers in Erie, Pa., Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and Atlanta. He holds a master's degree in public administration from George Mason University and undergraduate degrees in journalism and computer science from the University of Dayton. Email mmaciag@governing.com | Twitter @mikemaciag

Taxes on commuters (and reverse commuters) represent a largely untapped source of revenue that cities may begin to target more aggressively -- particularly if they’re struggling. View data showing the cities with the most outside workers and reverse commuters.

An increase in the federal minimum wage would have far greater effects in some states than others. View new data to see where workers are earning at or below the federal rate, which has been frozen at $7.25 since 2009.

Fifteen states experienced significant population increases last year. New Census estimates on migration trends and birth rates provide a glimpse into what's driving each state's growth. View data for your state.

The stimulus played a large role in propping up schools and other public-sector payrolls as agencies sought to stave off job cuts during the Great Recession. Where these jobs stand today, though, varies greatly.

The cuts and changes Congress has been weighing to the farm bill could knock millions off SNAP rolls and reverse years of progress states have made in streamlining applications. See data showing how each state could be affected.

A recent report by the Government Accountability Office finds a widening gap between projected revenues and expenses for years to come. Rising health and pension costs and less federal funding are just a few of the reasons.

New Census data shows most regions are seeing their age 65 and older population climb. But for some jurisdictions, the growth has been far more pronounced than others. View new demographic data for states and counties.

Many public employees have waited years for salary increases, and recent surveys indicate pay freezes are continuing to persist. The implications have been far-reaching, from hindering employee retention to hurting morale.

A new report by the Government Accountability Office forecasts a gloomy outlook for state and local government budgets, finding an ever-widening gap between projected revenues and expenses for years to come.

Mexico City has a massive trash problem that's partially caused by citizens' resistance to recycle. To encourage them to do so, the city gives residents food vouchers in exchange for their recyclable waste.

Many states' mental health funding declined in recent years, but now some lawmakers have focused their attention on the issue after last week's shooting deaths in Newtown, Conn. View charts and spending amounts for each state.

New census estimates show population is increasing in large cities faster than the nation as a whole, and the growth appears to be accelerating. View an interactive map with updated figures for the 1,000 largest U.S. cities.

While a myriad of factors determine a community’s overall health, a strong correlation exists between median household income and health outcomes, according to Governing’s analysis of data from the 2012 County Health Rankings, conducted by the University of Wisconsin and sponsored by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

A federal board has proposed a centralized system for tracking spending. If implemented, officials say it could reduce state and local governments' reporting burden and improve data access for citizens.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released new employment figures for October, showing governments continued to cut payrolls. State governments reported the most significant decline, losing 20,000 jobs for the month.

Fla. Gov. Rick Scott has posted university faculty salaries online, and is now compiling additional data. Some public educators, though, question his motives as the state considers reforms to higher education.

New census data shows concentrations of public employees throughout the country. Public employee figures vary greatly in different areas, accounting for up to a quarter of the workforce in some states.